Sheffield United are expected to renew Ched Evans' loan with Fleetwood Town unless they suffer a selection crisis in attack, The Star understands.

Evans has been prolific in front of goal since moving to Highbury earlier this summer and enters tomorrow's visit to Sunderland having scored five times in only six outings for Joey Barton's side.

Although United can summon the Welsh centre-forward back to Bramall Lane in the New Year, Chris Wilder and his coaching staff are minded to allow Evans to remain in Lancashire until the end of the campaign providing the likes of Billy Sharp, Conor Washington and Leon Clarke stay fit and healthy.

Speaking last month, Wilder explained how the 29-year-old would benefit from regular first team football as he attempts to reinvigorate his career following an injury hit season last term.

"I think getting games under his belt will do Ched the world of good," the United manager, who remains convinced Evans can return to play at important role for his team, said. "It will get him back into the swing of things and, if he's on target regularly as well, that will do wonders for his belief and confidence."

Fleetwood travel to the North-East sixth in League One, three points behind unbeaten Sunderland.

Fleetwood Town manager Joey Barton

"We want to remain up there, contending for the play-offs and automatic (promotion) all season," Evans said. "We have to keep getting points on the board and see where we are at Christmas. There are a lot of Championship-quality players (in this squad) with promotions. I think we will get a top-six finish, automatic hopefully."